How often should someone with emphysema get a full pulmonary function test?
Ask the doctor
Q. I have emphysema. How often should I have a complete breathing test?
A. There are no specific recommendations about how often a person with emphysema needs a complete breathing test. Doctors call this pulmonary function testing. Doctors commonly order a full breathing test in people with chronic lung disease every one to two years.
In general, treatment is guided by how you feel and by your blood oxygen level. Your doctor can measure your blood oxygen level by putting a clip over your finger. A machine gives the reading — no needles.
I hope you are not smoking. Quitting smoking is the only way to slow down the lung damage from emphysema.
Using a pulse oximeter is an easy way to help monitor your condition. It's a small sensor that attaches over your fingernail to measure your blood oxygen level. If your blood oxygen level falls below 89%, you would be eligible for home oxygen therapy. Home oxygen can help you feel better, and it prolongs survival in people with emphysema.
Your doctor may order a complete breathing test if you started feeling more short of breath and the reason was not clear. The breathing test could help determine if your lung condition is getting worse, or if your doctor needs to look for some other cause of your shortness of breath.
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About the Author
Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
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